If you got real and deeply interest in Southeast Asia and enough time more than twenty-one days, then you can consider this itinerery. Lasting for 21 days, this route is the best way to step into the authentic Indochina with a kaleidoscopic fusion of cultures, cuisines, landscapes and religions in Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia.
Explore the Authentic Indochina: A Cultural Journey Through Southeast Asia
About This Tour
Inclusions
- Lunch
- Breakfast
- Dinner
- Transportation with air-conditioning
- Hotel transfers for arrival and departure
- Entrance fees
- Accommodation twin/double/triple sharing
- Mineral water and meals as specified in the itinerary
- English speaking guides (other languages available upon request with surcharge)
- International flight tickets (Chiang Mai - Luang Prabang - Ha Noi, Ho Chi Minh City - Siem Reap)
- Domestic flight tickets (Ha Noi - Da Nang - Ho Chi Minh City)
- Train ticket (Bangkok - Chiang Mai), sleeping soft berth-shared cabin
- Food & drinks
Exclusions
- Visa fees
- Compulsory dinner on 24 Dec and 31 Dec surcharge (depending on hotel policy)
- Tips and gratuities
- Travel Insurance
- Personal expenses such as: shopping, telephone, beverage, etc.
- International or domestic air tickets not mentioned above
- All others services not mentioned in inclusion
- Public holiday surcharge
Tour Plan
Itinerary
Pick-up at Suvarnabhumi International Airport. Transfer to your hotel. Overnight in Bangkok.
Our guide will pick you up at your hotel and take you to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, one of Thailand's most iconic attractions. You will travel by long-tailed speedboat as your guide shares the fascinating history of the 19th-century canals, built by King Rama IV. As you cruise through the waterways, you will pass vendors selling freshly picked produce, handmade sweets, and unique souvenirs. This half-day experience offers a glimpse into traditional Thai life, with the bustling market set against the backdrop of vibrant, tropical scenery. The floating market is a lively and colorful spectacle, offering a chance to explore local culture in an unforgettable way. In the evening, you will be transferred to the train station for your onward journey. Whether you're continuing your adventure in Thailand or heading home, this day trip will leave you with lasting memories of the country's rich heritage and vibrant market life. Overnight on train.
Arrive early in Chiang Mai and be welcomed at Chiang Mai Train Station. After breakfast, embark on a City Temples Tour to discover the city's rich cultural and religious heritage. Chiang Mai has a long and independent history, and much of its Thai culture has been beautifully preserved. Begin with Wat Phra Singh, renowned for its stunning northern Thai architecture and its exquisite Viharn. Next, visit Wat Chedi Luang, home to Chiang Mai's largest stupa, a symbol of the city's grandeur and history. Finally, explore Wat Chiang Man, the oldest temple in Chiang Mai, dating back to the founding of the city. These temples offer a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of Chiang Mai, providing a perfect introduction to this ancient city. The tour will leave you with a deeper understanding of the region's spiritual heritage, making it a memorable start to your journey. Overnight in Chiang Mai.
Visit Doi Suthep Temple, one of Chiang Mai's most important pilgrimage sites and a sacred location for Thai people. This stunning temple, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, is perched atop Doi Suthep Peak at 5,300 feet (1,615 meters) above sea level. The 600-year-old temple is known for its breathtaking views of the surrounding city and mountains, as well as its beautiful architecture, making it a must-visit for any traveler to Chiang Mai. The temple's golden stupa and intricate details are a testament to the region's rich cultural and religious heritage. In addition to its spiritual significance, Doi Suthep provides plenty of opportunities for great photos and offers a peaceful atmosphere to reflect and take in the beauty of the area.
After visiting the temple, you will have free time in the afternoon to explore Chiang Mai at your own pace, discover local markets, or relax. Overnight in Chiang Mai.
After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Chiang mai International Airport to go to Luang Prabang. Upon arrival at Luang Prabang International Airport, pick up and transfer to the hotel. Check in and relax. Overnight in Luang Prabang.
If you’re able to wake up before dawn (5:30 am) to witness and participate in offering alms to hundreds of saffron-robed monks - an awe-inspiring sight dating back generations in Laos. Optional walking through the morning market where all local products are being sold, watching the town come to life in the morning then returning to the hotel for breakfast.
After breakfast, drive south to one of Luang Prabang’s most picturesque sights, the Kuang Si waterfall. On arrival, take a leisurely hike through the national park towards the Kuang Si waterfall. For the more adventurous, continue to the top of the main waterfall where you may choose to swim in a large pool
In the afternoon, start your visit to the Royal Palace, which is now a National Museum and houses the precious exhibits that used to be possessions of the former Laos Royal family. (Open from 8:30 am to 11.30 am and from 1.30 pm to 3.30 pm daily except on Tuesdays) Continue with the exploration of the main Buddhist temples of Luang Prabang including; Wat Visoun, a 16th-century temple which serves as a small museum for religious artifacts; Wat Aham, built in the early 19th-century temple and Wat Xiengthong, a 16th-century temple that epitomizes all the elegance and grace of Luang Prabang architecture. Take the opportunity to interact with the monks at the Wat Mai temple before ending the day with a climb of 328 steps to the top of Phousi Hill where you can watch the sunset over Luang Prabang town. Transfer back to your hotel by private vehicle. Free time to explore the colorful night Bazaar. Overnight in Luang Prabang.
Embark on a two-hour cruise in a long-tail boat on the Mekong River and visit the mysterious Pak Ou Caves. En route, typical Laotian villages are barely visible behind thick foliage. Wooden canoes bobbing by the shore attached to bamboo poles can be seen everywhere while floats mark the location of nets and fish traps. Arrive at Pak Ou and explore the sanctuaries which consist of two large caves. Both repositories house thousands of Buddha images, which range from mere centimeters to two meters in height. Returning to Luang Prabang by car.
Have free time in the afternoon. Overnight in Luang Prabang.
Free time all day to explore Luang Prabang on your own or take an optional tour with Hoi An Express. Overnight in Luang Prabang.
After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Luang Prabang International Airport to go to Ha Noi. Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, pick up and transfer to the hotel. Check in and relax. Overnight in Ha Noi.
The wondrous Ha Long Bay is truly one of Vietnam’s most impressive sights. Heading out of town, we will embark by boat for an exploration of legendary Ha Long Bay. Ha Long Bay is home to some 3000 limestone islands that rise out of the clear emerald water. The limestone karsts formations are littered with beaches, grottoes and beautiful caves. Along the way, we will anchor for a leisurely swim in a secluded cove and enjoy a visit to one of the many hidden grottoes beneath towering cliffs. Overnight on the cruise.
After breakfast, enjoy some swimming or sunbathing. After lunch, return to Ha Noi. Overnight in Ha Noi.
After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Noi Bai Airport to go to Hoi An. Upon arrival at Da Nang Airport, pick up and transfer to your hotel. Overnight in Hoi An.
In the morning, embark on an unforgettable bicycle ride through the picturesque countryside of Hoi An, where the lush vegetable fields of Tra Que Village offer a glimpse into the region's agricultural traditions. As you cycle through the vibrant green landscape, immerse yourself in a hands-on cooking experience. Join a local family in crafting the delicate “white rose” dumplings, a Hoi An specialty, and learn the art of preparing Cao Lau, the region’s renowned noodle dish. Alongside these, savor unique local treats like Banh Dap (a crunchy rice cracker) and Che Bap (a sweet corn dessert), offering a true taste of Hoi An’s rich culinary culture.
In the afternoon, take a scenic journey to the ancient My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where the Champa Kingdom flourished from the 4th to the 13th centuries. Explore the towering temples, nestled in a lush valley, and learn about the kingdom's unique blend of Hindu influences. The site offers not only stunning views but also a fascinating look into the spiritual and political history of Southeast Asia. This tour provides a deep connection to the cultural and historical roots of the region, combining both culinary delights and ancient heritage. Overnight in Hoi An.
Free time all day to explore Hoi An on your own or take an optional tour with Hoi An Express until transfer to Da Nang. Overnight in Da Nang.
After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Da Nang Airport to go to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport, pick up and transfer to the hotel. Check in and relax. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
A trip to the Mekong Delta offers a fascinating glimpse into the unique agrarian life of this vibrant southern region of Vietnam. We will embark on a relaxing cruise along the Mekong River to one of the islands near My Tho, where we will be entertained with traditional music. While enjoying the melodies, we will sip tea sweetened with bee honey and savor seasonal fresh fruits, experiencing the local flavors.
Next, we will take a paddle boat to navigate through the narrow canals of the Mekong. An interesting aspect of transportation in this region is that most locals travel by boat due to the extensive network of interlaced canals. This well-developed system of water transportation allows us to discover many unique sights, including picturesque banks lined with coconut trees.
During the paddle boat ride, we will get an intriguing look at the local cottage industry, particularly the process of making coconut candy. Afterward, we will enjoy a delicious lunch featuring ‘Elephant-Ear Fish’ along with other traditional Vietnamese dishes, highlighting the region’s culinary specialties. To conclude our trip, we will visit Vinh Trang Pagoda, a national historical and cultural relic known for its distinctive architectural and spiritual significance - a place not to be missed. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
The Cu Chi Tunnels, a network stretching over 250 kilometers, are one of the most famous and historically significant aspects of the Vietnam War. Originally created in 1948 to support the Viet Minh in their fight for independence from the French, the digging and construction of tunnels continued for the next 25 years. The result was an underground city complete with living areas, kitchens, storage facilities, weapons factories, field hospitals, and command centers. These tunnels could accommodate thousands of people who lived almost entirely underground for years, leading relatively normal lives, including getting married and raising children.
During the American War, the entire Cu Chi area was designated as a free-fire zone and faced heavy attacks and bombings. In 1988, two sections of the tunnels were opened to visitors. Now, you have the chance to enjoy this wonderful and informative experience. Constructed with “moving parts”, these structures were designed to be livable for long periods of time.
For those interested, there is an opportunity to fire rounds from a war-era M16 or AK47 at the nearby firing range. (This activity is optional; firing range fees are not included). Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Tan Son Nhat International Airport to go to Siem Reap. Upon arrival at Siem Reap International Airport, pick up and transfer to the hotel. Check in and relax. Overnight in Siem Reap.
Free time all day to explore Siem Reap on your own or take optional tour with Hoi An Express. Overnight in Siem Reap.
We will spend a full day visiting the famous temples of Angkor Archaeological Park. You will have the opportunity to experience the breathtaking views at Angkor Wat and Ta Prohm, the latter being one of the most photographed temples in the Angkor complex. Constructed in the Bayon style between the late 12th and early 13th century, Ta Prohm was left pretty much untouched by archaeologists. Then back to the hotel for breakfast and continue the tour to visit Angkor Thom,. which translates to “Great City”. The city covers an area of 9sqm in which numerous breath‐taking monuments were built. The South Gate offers the grandest access to the city where the Victory Gate grants access on the East side, leaving the East Gate, which is also known as the Gate of the Death beautifully untouched in a very quiet part of the complex. The Terrace of the Elephants is a 300 meters long terrace that has three main platforms and two subsidiary ones. Likewise, the Terrace of Leper King was constructed in the 12th century. The curious name of this terrace refers to a statue of the Leper King that is on the platform of the terrace. Overnight in Siem Reap.
Have breakfast at the hotel and relax until the time of transfer to Siem Reap International airport for your departure flight.
Meeting / Pickup
Know Before You Go
- Passport required
Please Note
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Child 0 – 5 years old: 10% (There will be charged 50% if any usage of airfare on tour)
- Child 6 – 10 years old: 50% (sharing bed with parents, maximum 2 children), 100% of adult price if request separate bed
- If you want to upgrade Single Room please enquire for pricing
- Not stroller accessible
- Not suitable for pets
- No public transportation nearby
- Infants must not sit on laps
- Infant seats unavailable
- Booking at least 30 days in advance
- • Copy of passports • International flight tickets
Cancellation Policy
- We will charge a cancellation fee of 100% if booking is cancelled 6 days or less before the event
- We will charge a cancellation fee of 75% if booking is cancelled 29 days or less before the event
- We will charge a cancellation fee of 30% if booking is cancelled 60 days or less before the event
- We will charge a cancellation fee of 10% if booking is cancelled 999 days or less before the event
Reviews
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2 Comments
4.2
Exploring Indochina with our friends was an unforgettable adventure through Southeast Asia’s rich culture. We loved the accommodations, especially the cozy guesthouses that felt authentically local, allowing us to truly immerse ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere. While some days felt a bit rushed, the variety of experiences—from bustling markets to tranquil temples—made each moment worthwhile.
4.8
Our family recently embarked on a 21-day adventure through Southeast Asia, and it truly felt like we were exploring the heart of Indochina. The meals were a highlight, with each dish offering a taste of authentic flavors that showcased the diverse culture we encountered along the way. While the itinerary was packed with breathtaking sights and experiences, we did find some days rushed, leaving little time to soak in certain places.